Base Ten Blocks

Once the child has developed one-to-one correspondence and the combination of 10, we can move on to developing place value. The first idea is that numerals and number names can be represented with blocks. For example, the numerals 32 and 25 and the corresponding number names "thirty-two and "twenty-five" can be represented with 3 tens blocks and 2 unit blocks. The number 25 can be represented with 2 tens blocks and 5 unit blocks. Having a visual representation is valuable in creating a conceptual understanding of how our number system works. Seeing base ten on a two-dimensional surface does not transfer to a child's brain like tactical 3D experiences. The breaking down of numbers is the very early stages of algebra. Below are video lessons that show how using Base 10 blocks can help your child/student develop number sense.